Cox's Diary from the Front

Description:E P Cox's diary offers a precious first-hand account of life from the front lines during World War I.

Questions for students

Why do people keep diaries? What double-purpose does the presenter think Cox's diary served?

Use the 'Words' response template to explore some of the words in this Tale. Find out about any variations of meaning over time. Words to explore could include 'commemorate', 'censorship', 'divulge', 'agreeable' and 'eternal'.

Why are the remains of an unknown New Zealand soldier from World War I part of our National War Memorial? What symbolic value do they have?

Why do we commemorate a battle that ended in defeat for the New Zealand soldiers and their allies? Research this and discuss or record your own opinions about Gallipoli.

The narrator says that Cox returned to New Zealand, 'wounded and with plenty of stories to tell.' What were the main sources of knowledge about wars in the past? What are our main sources of knowledge about current wars?